all-out

1 of 2

adjective

ˈȯl-ˈau̇t How to pronounce all-out (audio)
Synonyms of all-outnext
1
: made with maximum effort : thoroughgoing
an all-out effort to win the contest
2
: full-blown sense 2

all out

2 of 2

adverb

: with full determination or enthusiasm : with maximum effort
—used chiefly in the phrase go all out

Synonyms of all-out

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Adjective

Adverb

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Examples of all-out in a Sentence

Adjective Grandpa got the all-out support of the family when he decided to remarry at age 72 an all-out effort to break open the door Adverb went all out for her New Year's Eve party—she even had fireworks!
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
The White Worm, who styled herself as a peacetime consigliere, is reduced to obsolescence by the promise of all-out war. — Amanda Whiting, Vulture, 10 Aug. 2026 The final episode's preview teases an all-out war between the Targaryens and Hightowers, as well as shocking betrayals that are sure to shake up the series. — Saman Shafiq, USA Today, 8 Aug. 2026
Adverb
More recently, other experts have advised American farmers to go all out growing soybeans, supposing they will be needed by the Chinese or somebody. — Cynthia Zarin, Harpers Magazine, 4 Aug. 2026 The Spinners - March 18, 2027 Spinners bring their catalog of songs for an all out concert. — Tania Azhang, Sacbee.com, 4 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for all-out

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1893, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adverb

1840, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of all-out was in 1840

Rhymes for all-out

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Browse Nearby Words

allotype
all-out
all out
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Cite this Entry

“All-out.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/all-out. Accessed 14 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

all-out

1 of 2 adjective
ˈȯ-ˈlau̇t
: made with maximum effort : extreme
an all-out attempt to finish on time

all out

2 of 2 adverb
: with maximum effort
went all out to win

More from Merriam-Webster on all-out

Nglish: Translation of all-out for Spanish Speakers

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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